This savory, aromatic, tender, flavorful, and delicious Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey Recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, especially during the fall season. The combination of roasted butternut squash, ground turkey, and a blend of spices creates a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the richness of ground turkey, all while infusing the dish with a blend of warm spices. By roasting the squash in the oven, it brings out its natural sweetness and tenderizes it to perfection. Meanwhile, the ground turkey is cooked with a mix of onions, garlic, and spices, creating a flavorful and aromatic base for the dish.
Key Ingredient Highlights
- Butternut squash: The star of the dish, providing natural sweetness and a tender texture.
- Ground turkey: Adds protein and richness to the dish, while absorbing all the flavors of the spices.
- Onions and garlic: Sauteed to bring out their natural sweetness and add depth to the dish.
- Warm spices: A blend of cumin, paprika, and chili powder adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the dish.
Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey Recipe
This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be ready in under an hour. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. You can serve it with some crusty bread or over rice or quinoa.
Ingredients
- ▢ 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
- ▢ 1 lb ground turkey
- ▢ 1 large onion, diced
- ▢ 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- ▢ 1 tsp cumin
- ▢ 1 tsp paprika
- ▢ 1/2 tsp chili powder
- ▢ Salt and pepper, to taste
- ▢ 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel, de-seed, and chop the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes.
- Place the squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
- In a large pan, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the ground turkey, cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Cook, breaking up the turkey with a spoon, until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the squash is done, add it to the pan with the turkey mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs, if desired.
Pro Tips
To avoid overcooking the squash, make sure to check on it after 20 minutes and adjust the cooking time as needed. For the turkey, make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks to prevent it from becoming dense and dry. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs to find the perfect balance of flavors for your taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use pre-cut butternut squash to save time?
A: Yes, you can use pre-cut butternut squash, but keep in mind that it may not be as fresh as a whole squash. Look for pre-cut squash that’s been stored properly and has no signs of spoilage.
Q: How do I prevent the turkey from drying out?
A: To prevent the turkey from drying out, make sure to cook it until it’s just done, then let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can also add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to keep the turkey moist.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the squash and turkey mixture separately and then combine them just before serving. This will prevent the squash from becoming mushy and the turkey from drying out.
Conclusion
This Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey Recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish perfect for any time of the year. With its blend of warm spices, tender squash, and rich turkey, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the savory, aromatic, tender, flavorful, and delicious flavors of this amazing recipe!
How to make Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey Recipe
